Online betting NBA players can kick off the New Year right by wagering on this evening’s thrilling basketball action. There will be a total of 6 different betting matchups this evening, with the Portland Trail Blazers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers taking center stage first. With that in mind, let’s take a gander at what kind of turnout the NBA odds sportsbook are predicting for this 2018 matchup.

Portland Trail Blazers

The Portland Trail Blazers are undefeated so far in 2018 since they picked up a 124-120 overtime win over the Chicago Red Bulls this past New Year’s. That win tallied Portland’s record to 19-17 on the season, ranking them 3rd in the Northwest Division. Furthermore, the Trail Blazers currently find themselves ranked 6th in the Western Conference, so they’re in the playoff cut for the moment. The Trail Blazers are 3-1 in their last 4 games, so they come into this evening’s pairing with a bit of momentum. However, it’s unlikely that that streak will convince the 2 team teaser odds to side with Portland over Cleveland. And that’s despite how poor the Cavs have been performing as of late.

In order to take advantage of Cleveland’s recent shortcomings, Portland will turn to Damian Lillard to pull off the victory. Lillard is currently averaging 25.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per matchup. In addition to Lillard’s contributions, the Trail Blazers will be hoping for a big night from CJ McCollum, who is second in points for the club. At the present time, McCollum is putting up 21.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists.

Cleveland Cavaliers

The Cavs ride into this Tuesday night matchup sporting a 24-12 record that ranks them 1st in the Central Division. Additionally, Cleveland finds themselves in the No. 3 spot in the Eastern Conference, several games behind the conference-leading Boston Celtics. However, despite their high ranking, Cleveland is 1-4 in their last 5 matchups, which is starting to cause their fans some worry. The last couple of months have been filled to the brim with LeBron James highlights that showcased the veteran brilliantly leading his team to a win.

Usually James saves these types of antics for later on in the season, in order to lock up a playoff spot. Nevertheless, there’s no question that the success Kyrie Irving has found in Boston has plaid a hand in James stepping up his game so early in the season. But ultimately this might tire out James too early, which will cause Cleveland to suffer some significant losses. Kind of how they’re doing right now.

All things considered, taking the Trail Blazers on an upset bet over the Cavs might be a good idea this evening. Granted, Portland isn’t the best team in the league, and the online betting NBA books are likely to rule against them heavily. However, Cleveland is right smack in the middle of a slump. And considering how big the upset line is, how could you not take a shot at it in this Portland Trail Blazers vs. Cleveland Cavaliers matchup?